Cyclists gear up for State Games

By Staff
This is one in a series of stories highlighting the competitions that make up The State Games of Mississippi. The State Games are set for June 18-20 and June 24-27 in Meridian.
By Robby Atkinson/staff writer
May 15, 2004
When people think about competitive cycling, they usually think of Tour de France champion Lance Armstrong.
While Armstrong is nationally known, local riders will take to the pavement of Lauderdale County on Saturday, June 26 at the State Games of Mississippi in an effort to make a name for themselves.
Between 40 to 50 cyclists of varying ages and skill levels are expected to take part in the annual event.
Butch Gray has been the commissioner of the event since it was included in the State Games in 1992.
The event will begin at 9 a.m. on June 26 at the Old Geico Insurance Company site at the intersection of John C. Stennis Drive and Hwy. 39 North. Three courses will be drawn out for the different age groups in the one-day event, with the longest set for 30 miles.
All of the courses for the women will be 20 miles, and most of the courses for the men will be 30. The only age group that will race 20 miles in the men's category are 60-69 and 70-and-over.
Helmets will be required for all riders. Three places will be awarded in each age class. All riders can register at the event beginning at 8 a.m. with $15 added to the previous $25 fee. Registration, if space remains, will end 30 minutes prior to the beginning of the event.
Founding Gold Sponsors of The State Games of Mississippi an Olympics-style sports festival are Rush Foundation Hospital and Meridian's Coca-Cola, while Gold Sponsors are The Mississippi Band of Choctaw Indians, The Partnership For a Healthy Mississippi, Bell South and Meridian Airport Authority.
For event applications or schedules call 1-800-462-0205 or visit the State Games of Mississippi website at www.stategamesofms.org.